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1. Introduction

Today’s presentation is about teaching intermediate standard piano students.


Initially I will define what I expect of my intermediate piano students technically, following this I will look, briefly, at teaching strategies for Kuhlau Sonatina in F, opus 68 number 4.


This will consist of three points

  1. A short analysis with observational details of selected points

  2. Teaching strategies and practice tips

  3. Final thoughts for performance

I will highlight a selection of issues that may arise and offer possible solutions. I will include some sample exercises that may be required.


Finally, I will summarise how I deal with parents who wish to complete consecutive exams without completing the recommended coursework in order to increase ability.

Early Intermediate Students are expected to have a balanced set of elementary skills before an intermediate programme is commenced.


  • Complete a basic elementary series

  • This could consist of 1 or more of the following elementary series of books

  • 100 Best Short Classics Book 1. Peterson’s Publications Ltd

  • Classics to Modern. Book 1 & 2. Yorktown Music Press

  • More Romantic Pieces Book 1 & 2. ABRSM Publishing

  • Romantic Sketchbook. Books 1 & 2 ABRSM Publishing

  • Grand Solos for Piano. Alfred Publishing

  • Piano Anthologies Grades 1 - 4 London College of Music

  • Reading, counting, understanding and performing simple rhythms

  • Fluent reading of pre grade 3 repertoire

  • Playing with a good tone, articulation, dynamic contrast and phrase shaping at an appropriate tempo.

  • Undertaking easier pieces by master composers.

  • Performing all major & minor scales, arpeggios and broken chords over 2 octaves without evident tension.

  • Ear training skill to grade 4 standard

  • Sight reading skills to grade 4 standard


Observations & Analysis contribute to the success of a teaching studio. Once it has been ascertained a student is ready to start the intermediate programme the Sonatina by Kuhlau is a piece that may be chosen. This is a Sonatina that appeals to all ages and can serve as the third stepping stone to the first Sonata. The first two standards being Clementi Sonatina in C (Opus 36) and (attrib) Beethoven Sonatina in F (Anh. No. 2 in the Kinsky-Halm Catalogue) this should have been studied at the end of the Elementary section.

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Chris Caton-Greasley LLCM(TD) MA (Mus)(Open)

Ethnographic Musicologist, Teacher, Researcher

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